Friday, June 18, 2010

What a fun read! Even though this story has a wide variety of characters to keep up with, it’s easy to read and the details blended seamlessly for me once I got into the book. I especially appreciated the independent spirit of Ella Barton who is self conscious about her appearance, and determined to make her own way in the world without a man.

This story centers around a group of women, many of them widows who think they are off on a great adventure to homestead free land. Little do they know, Mr. Drake, the leader of this group has deceived them and hopes to make money by marrying them off when they arrive at their destination in Nebraska.

Though the story starts off a bit slow, I think most readers will enjoy it if they stick with it and give it a chance. Lovers of historical fiction will be delighted with this post-war tale.

Product Description

Sixteen Civil War widows living in St. Louis respond to a series of meetings conducted by a land speculator who lures them west by promising "prime homesteads" in a "booming community." Unbeknownst to them, the speculator's true motive is to find an excuse to bring women to the fledging community of Plum Grove, Nebraska, in hopes they will accept marriage proposals shortly after their arrival! Sparks fly when these unsuspecting widows meet the men who are waiting for them. These women are going to need all the courage and faith they can muster to survive these unwanted circumstances--especially when they begin to discover that none of them is exactly who she appears to be.

About the Author

Stephanie Grace Whitson, bestselling author and two-time Christy Award finalist, pursues a full-time writing and speaking career from her home studio in Lincoln, Nebraska.